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The Difference Between Balayage and Highlights

The Difference Between Balayage and Highlights

There’s a difference between these two hair-lightening techniques. Which one is right for you depends on your desired effect and your hair’s natural color. Looking at photos in magazines or online can be overwhelming. It’s important to know the difference between balayage and highlights to ensure you get the look you want. How much do highlights and balayage cost? Let Therapy Hair Studio answer some of the important questions on hair coloring.

The Balayage Process

The French word “balayage” means “to sweep”. It’s a hair coloring process in which the highlights or color are hand-painted or “swept” over the random sections of your hair. Balayage works by applying color without foil separating the strands, so there’s a more natural, sun-kissed look to the hair rather than more regular intervals of lighter color. The color is only applied to the surface, not saturating the strand, so it may not damage the strands as much.

You may be familiar with the “ombre” style that was super-popular a few years back. Ombre is done using a balayage technique, where the color gradually flows from dark to light. When most people refer to a balayage, they’re often asking for a more subtle ombre style, as the color applied in a balayage is usually just a few shades lighter than your natural color.

Pros and Cons of Balayage

The balayage hair color technique leaves less visible root difference as the color grows out, unlike highlights. When your highlights grow out, there may be a noticeable difference between your roots and the larger highlights. Balayage can be done as a partial color treatment, on the bottom part of the hair, or around the face to soften your face.

Balayage is a popular request in the springtime, as it often complements the natural lightening of the hair in the summer sun. As a lower-maintenance option, it may be ideal for a low-stress summer ‘do.

However, there are drawbacks to balayage. It’s more subtle than highlights, so if you want a drastic change or something noticeable, this may not be the right color technique for you.

Highlights Process

Traditional foil highlights add depth and brightness to your hair and are created using foil to separate the strands to be highlighted from those that remain natural. The highlighted portions are more saturated with the color, resulting in larger, brighter, more dramatic swaths of lighter color. Your colorist separates strands of hair, usually starting close to the root, and wraps the separated sections in foil. The hair-highlighted color saturates the strands more fully than in balayage.

You typically see a more structured pattern to highlights, which has a more dramatic effect. Balayage usually begins a few inches from the roots to about halfway down your locks, highlights start much higher, right at the roots.

Highlighting hair can look more appealing if done in addition to balayage. Many people may combine highlights and lowlights (darker colors) to create a multi-tonal look. Your colorist may choose a complementing shade that creates visual movement in your hair.

Not all highlights have to be dramatic, though. Opt for “baby lights” for a more subtle brightness or lowlights without highlights to create more depth and richness in your color.

Pros and Cons of Highlights

The Difference Between Balayage and HighlightsProfessional, well-placed highlights can make thinner hair appear fuller, especially when the highlights complement a layered cut or a style with loose curls. Highlights require several shades of lighter hair than your natural or base color. Highlighting techniques can give you the “feel” of a lighter hair color without fully committing to dyeing your hair. For example, darker-haired people may opt for reddish highlights around the face to bring out warm undertones in their skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our clients often have questions about these hair treatments, some of which include highlights and balayage cost approximations. We’ve answered some of those for you here:

How long will balayage or highlights last?

Your full balayage-colored treated hair should last for two to four months before you may need a touch-up. Highlights will need a touch-up every couple of months, depending on how fast your hair grows.

How do I keep my balayage from fading?

If you have red or blonde color for your balayage, ask your colorist for a recommendation for color-preserving shampoos. Purple shampoo and conditioners will help prevent blonde and red shades from turning brassy.

Can I get balayage on permed hair?

This depends on the condition of your hair and how light you want to go. New technology in some perm lotions makes it safer to get a perm and balayage on the same day. However, ask your colorist to evaluate how healthy your hair is – the last thing you want is for half of your balayage to break off!

How much does balayage cost?

Each salon sets its own pricing, but generally, longer hair will cost more than shorter hair, as you’ll need more products to get results. You can ask for a quote from different salons in your area and ask to see before-and-after photos, as deciding on hair color or a salon solely on price may not give you the results you’re dreaming of.

Get Expert Help Today

To get an approximation of highlights and balayage cost pricing from expert salons, trust Therapy Hair Studio and call [phone-number linked=true]. Make an appointment with our team of stylists who can help you decide which treatment is best for you. Our salon is well-equipped and skilled to make your dream look possible.

Related Posts: 

Highlights vs. Lowlights: What are the Major Differences?

Balayage Hair: The Ultimate Guide to Know All About It


The Need-to-Know Secrets about Balayage Hair Treatment

THE NEED-TO-KNOW SECRETS ABOUT BALAYAGE HAIR TREATMENT

Ever wonder how some of our Houston residents achieve those naturally sun-kissed locks that seem to shimmer under the Texan sun? The answer is no secret – it’s the ever-popular Balayage hair treatment. At Therapy Hair Studio, we’ve perfected this art, and today, we’re pulling back the curtain to share some must-know secrets about this transformative treatment.

What Is Balayage, and How Does It Work?

Despite being associated with blonde, shimmering locks, Balayage isn’t a color. Instead, it’s an artful application technique. The term comes from the French word for “to sweep” or “paint.” Imagine hair that’s luminous around the face, seamlessly blended at the roots, and cascading into lighter ends – that’s the Balayage effect.

Now, how does this differ from your traditional highlights? The difference lies in the application technique. Instead of using foils like in classic highlights, Balayage employs a more freehand approach. A colorist dips a brush in a lightener and paints it onto the hair, creating deliberate, vertical highlights. To ensure precision and prevent mishaps like color bleeding or spotting, cotton or saran wrap strips are layered between each painted section. This hands-on technique allows for a tailored experience, resulting in a beautifully blended, naturally lightened appearance.

Benefits of Balayage

One primary benefit of Balayage hair treatments is that they boast a natural allure that traditional highlights can’t match. While conventional methods might result in noticeable lines where the color starts or stops, Balayage sidesteps this pitfall gracefully. Thanks to the hand-painted approach on specifically chosen strands and a thoughtful blending with your natural base, the outcome is a softer, more nuanced appearance.

Beyond aesthetics, Balayage offers practical benefits. It’s a low-maintenance styling technique, a blessing for those with busy schedules. Furthermore, the gentle gradients and absence of stark lines mean regrowth is less conspicuous, granting you more time between salon visits. Additionally, the strategic use of barriers during the application ensures that the bleach layers remain isolated. This reduces the chances of color “bleeding” and ensures that the final result remains pristine.

Finally, let’s talk hair health. Many people shy away from color treatments because of the damage they can cause. But unlike treatments that drench your entire head in bleach, Balayage employs a selective approach. This means using less bleach overall, which translates to a beautifully lightened look that’s kinder to your hair.

Downsides of Balayage

While Balayage offers an array of dazzling benefits, as with any treatment, it’s essential to understand the potential drawbacks to ensure it aligns with your preferences and desired outcome. A primary consideration is the interaction of the treatment with your natural hair color.

The unique tones and hues of your hair – be it warm, neutral, or cool – play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of your Balayage treatment. Particularly for individuals with very dark hair, Balayage may unexpectedly draw out pronounced warm tones, such as red or orange. These warm undertones, though appealing to many, might not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you cherish cool, ash-like tones, Balayage could pose a challenge.

Moreover, the issue of brassiness is a potential concern. Depending on your natural hair color, Balayage-treated hair might turn brassy faster than hair treated with traditional highlights.

Preparing for a Balayage Treatment

THE NEED-TO-KNOW SECRETS ABOUT BALAYAGE HAIR TREATMENTStepping into the world of Balayage is thrilling, but proper preparation is key to a successful transformation. Here’s a guide to set the stage for a flawless Balayage experience:

  • Visual Inspiration: To ensure you and your stylist are on the same wavelength, bring photos showcasing the Balayage look you’re aiming for. These visual aids will help articulate your preferences, be it the shade, intensity, or specific style nuances you desire.
  • Clean Canvas: It might sound basic, but washing your hair before your salon visit can make a world of difference. Clean hair allows the colorist to work more effectively, ensuring the lightener and colors adhere uniformly.
  • Pre-Treatment Care: To ensure your strands are in their best state, indulge in a conditioning treatment a few days before your Balayage appointment. This strengthens your hair and ensures it’s hydrated and resilient, paving the way for optimal color results.
  • Signature Style: On the day of your appointment, wear your hair in its typical style. This gives the stylist a clear picture of your everyday look, allowing them to customize the Balayage application to best complement your natural style.

If you want a natural, sun-kissed hairstyle to show off around Houston, the stylists at Therapy Hair Studio can show you the wonders of Balayage. Call (713) 355-4247 or complete our contact form to schedule an appointment.


How Long Will My Balayage Last?

Balayage is a popular hair coloring technique where a stylist paints the hair in a sweeping motion to create a natural, sun-kissed effect. Unlike a traditional hair coloring technique which uses foils or caps, a balayage creates a subtle and gradual transition between shades. If you want a natural new look to your hair, consider balayage.

How Is a Balayage Created?

To create a balayage, your stylist will section your hair and apply the color with a brush or sponge. The stylist will paint your hair to mimic its natural movement and flow. This can create various effects, from subtle highlights to high-contrast looks.

Benefits of a Balayage

The balayage technique has become increasingly popular because of its many benefits, including:

  • Low maintenance: Unlike traditional hair coloring, which requires touch-ups every four to six weeks, a balayage can last several months. This is because regrowth is less noticeable with a balayage due to its natural look.
  • Versatile: A balayage can suit any hair, texture, or color. It can also create various looks, from natural-looking highlights to high-contrast effects.
  • Depth and dimension: A balayage can also create depth and dimension, making your hair appear fuller and more voluminous.
  • Minimal damage: Balayages only require the application of the coloring product to smaller portions of hair. This minimizes the amount of hair exposed to the chemicals. Also, a balayage requires fewer touch-ups, limiting the time your hair is exposed to the dye.

Drawbacks of a Balayage

While there are many benefits to balayage, there are also various drawbacks, including:

  • Cost: A balayage usually costs more than traditional hair coloring techniques because it requires more skill.
  • Limited color options: A balayage limits the colors and shades you can choose, especially if you want very dark or light hair.
  • Potential hair damage: A balayage generally causes less damage than traditional coloring. However, if it is not done correctly, or the hair isn’t adequately prepped, a balayage can harm your hair. A bad balayage may make your hair look dry and brittle and cause it to become prone to breakage.
  • Maintenance: The required maintenance for a balayage may be less than traditionally colored hair, but you still need to take care of it to keep your hair looking amazing.
  • Results may vary: The free-form technique of a balayage is what makes it popular. However, it also creates unpredictability because each stylist will paint the color on differently, causing varying results.

how long will my balayage lastHow Long Does a Balayage Last?

The longevity of a balayage depends on various factors, such as your hair type and the color applied. It also depends on how well you care for your hair after the balayage application. Typically, a balayage will last 8 to 12 weeks before it begins to fade.

However, once it begins to fade, that doesn’t mean you must rush to retouch it. Sometimes, the naturally faded look may enhance the overall look of your hair.

How to Make Your Balayage Last Longer?

Once you finish your balayage, you’ll want to ensure it lasts as long as possible. You should do the following to maintain your balayage to keep it looking vibrant.

  • Use the right products: Using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for color-treated hair can help prevent fading. Additionally, using a color-depositing conditioner can improve the look of your hair.
  • Avoid heat styling: You can minimize damage by letting your hair dry naturally and using heat-based styling tools sparingly.
  • Avoid over-washing your hair: Washing your hair too frequently can cause your balayage to fade. To limit how often you wash your hair, use dry shampoo or other products recommended by your stylist.
  • Get your hair trimmed regularly: Trimming your hair can keep it healthy and prevent split ends. Failing to trim your ends can cause your balayage to fade and look dull.
  • Use leave-in conditioner: Using leave-in conditioner can keep your hair moisturized and healthy.

By following the above tips, you can extend the life of your balayage and keep your hair looking fabulous.

Contact a Stylist Today To Get Your Balayage

Leave the traditional hair color look behind. Instead, consider balayage for a natural highlight or lowlight look. The stylists at Therapy Hair Studio are skilled in this fantastic and fresh technique.

If you are ready to try balayage, contact our team today at (713) 355-4247 or through our online contact form.